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A leading Italian consumer association are sounding the alarm over what they call completely unjustified cost hikes for ski passes this cold-weather period, warning that alpine sports could become an exclusive privilege for affluent individuals.

Significant Cost Rises Across Italy

From the majestic Alps and stunning Dolomite mountains in the northern territories to the ski runs of Abruzzo, prices are set to rise by up to 40% compared to 2021 levels, according to recent analysis.

The prestigious Dolomiti Superski pass, which provides entry to all 12 resorts in the exclusive Dolomites, will now cost skiers €86 per day this season. In the popular Abruzzo resort, a single-day lift ticket is expected to reach €60, following significant overcrowding during the previous winter.

Seasonal Pass Costs and Additional Expenses

At the same time, seasonal ski passes will vary between €755 per adult in Roccaraso to as much as €1,800 in the Aosta valley.

The expense of hiring ski equipment has also increased, along with hotel accommodations and dining expenses throughout mountain resorts.

Consumer Group President Points to Unreasonable Hikes

The consumer association president, leading the watchdog organization, emphasized that the cost rises—which operators blame on higher energy costs, resort maintenance, and demand for better equipment—were completely unjustified and not acceptable.

"Both because inflation in Italy are managed effectively and utility costs, which had raised operational costs for mountain facility managers in 2022, have stabilized at previous levels," he explained.

The president further stated that prices have now reached levels where less wealthy individuals are being forced to abandon their traditional settimana bianca, or ski holiday, completely.

Tourism Decline and Wider Perspective

He noted a significant drop in mountain tourism during the current winter period, with a million fewer domestic visitors visiting ski resorts compared to the prior season due to rising costs.

Despite these increases, Italy remains a cheaper option for winter sports fans in western Europe compared to nearby Swiss resorts, French destinations, and Austria.

Olympic Context

The increasing worry over winter sports expenses comes as the nation gets ready to host the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics between the first three weeks of February. The nation's top diplomat, the foreign affairs official, announced on Friday that Italy had presented a plan to the United Nations calling for a "worldwide ceasefire" during the international event.

"With Milan Cortina we must also send a peaceful communication and conversation... to halt conflicts during the Games," Tajani emphasized.